Soundclouds of the Underground: Songs that Bite Back Edition

These days, music truly lives online, with an infinite number of websites dedicated to hosting tunes for the laptop-wielding masses. However, the web’s bottomless pit of blogs isn’t the only place to troll for mp3 treasures—some of the most new and exciting (Internet-friendly) artists can be sought out via Soundcloud, the online stage that allows musicians to promote and distribute their music to fans and friends across the globe. In this weekly column, expert Internet sleuth Alex Chapman goes deep into the depths of the music-sharing site, in hopes of shedding light on emerging acts, as well as sharing some digital diamonds in the rough.

Every now and then, the bulk of blogosphere aficionados like yourselves need a little edge in their earbuds—an engaging, attitude-infused ditty that ups the old confidence levels in even the most timid of music lovers. Searching for this type of song is a journey that becomes less involved in genre, and more interested in feeling, which is why we’ve uncovered three extremely distinct tracks that are sure to put some ass-kicking pep in your step.

Junglepussy: “Feelin’ Myself”

Who: A unique, young talent who is no stranger to this site and recently opened for the one and only Lil’ Kim during her appearance at New York City’s Westway. JP tackles every track with a strong, focused flow, her lyrics as funny as they are fitting to the beat she spits on (see such gems as the outrageous and sexy “Cream Team“). There’s not a lot likely to get in the rapper’s way, and from the looks of things, her name will only become more familiar as the summer blazes on.

The Song: “Cream Team” producer Shane Augustus provides the bells and whistles for “Feelin’ Myself,” an eerie, almost mystical key riff anchoring the tasty track. Junglepussy adds a great deal of texture to the song, her verses varied in approach and content—whether she waxes on her ladylike demeanor, oxtail gravy, or the power of heels as a killer weapon, the eccentric artist is always having fun on the track, and that type of energy never gets old.

Current Project: You can learn more about Junglepussy by tuning into her Youtube channel, or heading over to her hilarious Twitter.

GRMLN: “Teenage Rhythm”

Who: On their Facebook profile, GRMLN describe themselves as “Rock Music At Its Shittiest.” Although we strongly disagree, we do acknowledge that their style and sound isn’t the most clean-cut of our Soundcloud selections. Loud, aggressive, and extremely catchy, GRMLN is indie-rock/pop with a focus in dark, punky vibes that help the group stand out.

The Song: “Get out, get out, get out!” So goes the refrain of “Teenage Rhythm,” a particularly appropriate title given the angst-filled aesthetic the song toys with. Big, messy, and emotional, the track seems perfectly fit for anyone who wants to add a little alt zest to their latest playlist.

Current Project: GRMLN’s new album “Empire” (of which “Teenage Rhythm” is the opening track) is available on iTunes. For more info on the band, check out their Facebook.

Witchney Houston: “Body/Touch”

Who: Their name may not be the most politically correct, but Witchney Houston’s (made up of Polish producers Maciek Bieganski and Jakub Dymek) dark dance beats are hard to deny. The duo’s sound stretches across the spectrum, dabbling in trap (see the fantastical One Direction-sampling “D1R3CT10N“), juke-inspired seapunk (T34CH3R5), and a number of other buzzed-about sub-genres.

The Song: “Body/Touch” sticks to the traditional R&B-house sound in terms of its structure (a melancholic synth riff, fast-paced percussion, etc.), but the track doesn’t stay in one place for long, bouncing between trap and dance rhythms seamlessly. This creates a booty-bouncing anthem fierce enough to walk down the runway to (even if your runway happens to be the sidewalk while on your way to work).

Current Project: For more info on Witchney Houston, check out their official website.

Soundclouds of the Underground runs every Thursday. For more, click here.